TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stand out as compelling options, each offering unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Gold Silver is revered for its rapid responsiveness, boasting a shortened travel distance that leads to a firm and definite bottom-out with every keystroke. The switch's smooth journey from initial press to bottoming out is complemented by a resonant sound signature, creating a harmonious blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) caters to those seeking maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your specific typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in unique sound profiles. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Silver incorporates a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound with a softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing that contributes to its unique sound profile on the deeper and more muted side. Despite different materials being used for the bottom housing, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective sound profiles.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Gold Silver leans towards a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Whether one prefers a sharper, high-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown. In terms of weight, the Gold Silver would be more preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the POM T1 the longer of the two switches. The Gold Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the POM T1, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the POM T1's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. The neutral sound profile of the Gold Silver makes it suitable for various environments, whether for work or leisure. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as resonant, offering a clean and sharp sound that is higher-pitched. The neutral sound profile of the POM T1 makes it versatile for different typing scenarios. Both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, but the Gold Silver leans towards a deeper tone, while the POM T1 produces a sharper sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver provides a polished and silky typing experience due to its smooth and refined finish. The mild and subtle characteristics of the Gold Silver allow for a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp and accented tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The snappy and invigorating nature of the POM T1 switch makes it responsive and immersive during typing sessions. Both switches excel in delivering a tactile typing experience, with the Gold Silver focusing on smoothness and mild feedback, while the POM T1 prioritizes sharp tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 offers a resonant and sharp sound with a sharp and accented tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feedback, users can choose between the swift and smooth Gold Silver or the punchy and tactile POM T1 for their mechanical keyboard setups. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance and can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing style and preferences. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if maximum tactility, sharp feedback, and a clean, resonant sound are what you seek in a switch, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs for an optimal keyboard experience.
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